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Mama Be Present: 40 Simple Yet Magical Ways to Find Joy in The Toddler Days
"Brit has a gentle and honest way of reminding us moms to embrace the chaos. This book is the calm we all need in the storm of new motherhood." —Shayna Ferm, author of Parentally Incorrect and creator of The Pump and Dump Show "The way to joy is through the exhaustion and chaos, and these prompts point the way. Bravo to Brit for creating something personal, beautiful, and REAL for mamas everywhere." —Karen Deerwester, owner of Family Time, Inc. and host of the See Me Hear Me Love Me podcast
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These days, us moms are swimming in a sea of socially curated, picture-perfect moments that leave us feeling like we aren’t doing enough to create magical childhoods for our kids. And yet with the day-to-day overwhelm and general busyness of life, it feels impossible for us to find time and energy to be the moms the world tells us to be. But what if...it wasn't that complicated? Could a bag of rice provide hours of entertainment? Is self-care really as simple as drinking a glass of water? Could beautiful moments be inspired from things you already have on hand? Before you've even had coffee? Mama Be Present provides 40 accessible ways to spark a moment of fun, connect with your child/ren, or seek some much-needed rest. It's a practical tool for the practice of parenting, delivering solution-based prompts that can be used at any time and (almost) any place. Whether you read it as needed or devour it in one sitting, you will Most of all, you'll learn that it doesn’t take much to make magic out of a simple moment. It just requires your presence, which is always enough.
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"Ever since participating in Brit's take-a-break challenge in 2016, I've been a big fan of her work. Not only has she inspired various MOPS communities I've invited her to speak at, but thanks to her engaging and convincing principles of self-care, I've kept up with many habits I've developed from her online programs. Now, she has created a book for moms that is simple in practice yet so deeply powerful. Her writing is a gift." —Sherri Crandall, VP of Global Ministries and Leadership Experience at MOPS International
Praise from Members of the Mama Be Present
"Brit strikes a powerful balance between hilarious and raw, story and research, and light-hearted and profound as she walks alongside moms guiding them in the most contradictory role in motherhood." —Christin Bourg
"Brit has helped me see that everyday seemingly insignificant things actually play a big role in creating joy. From ways to PLAY with my kids without embarrassment to how to plan for certain situations, this book has shifted my expectations and given me great tools for joyful parenting." —Kristal Schneider
"I'm astonished at how thought-provoking Mama Be Present was for me. All along, you think it's just about how to be a more present mom, but in reality, you’re also finding who YOU are again. I was in tears at the end. Brit’s prompts are some of the most insightful things I’ve ever read. 'Stop. Drop. Mom.' and 'Return to You' will stay with me forever." —Amy Norbert McKeon
“This book will have you crying and laughing from start to finish. While Brit constantly reminds us how precious the early years are, she also offers genius tips and hilarious perspectives on the everyday struggles we can all relate to. It's such an inspiring toolkit for all moms.” —Mirna Tomic
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These days, us moms are swimming in a sea of socially curated, picture-perfect moments that leave us feeling like we aren’t doing enough to create magical childhoods for our kids. And yet with the day-to-day overwhelm and general busyness of life, it feels impossible for us to find time and energy to be the moms the world tells us to be. But what if...it wasn't that complicated? Could a bag of rice provide hours of entertainment? Is self-care really as simple as drinking a glass of water? Could beautiful moments be inspired from things you already have on hand? Before you've even had coffee? Mama Be Present provides 40 accessible ways to spark a moment of fun, connect with your child/ren, or seek some much-needed rest. It's a practical tool for the practice of parenting, delivering solution-based prompts that can be used at any time and (almost) any place. Whether you read it as needed or devour it in one sitting, you will Most of all, you'll learn that it doesn’t take much to make magic out of a simple moment. It just requires your presence, which is always enough.
--
"Ever since participating in Brit's take-a-break challenge in 2016, I've been a big fan of her work. Not only has she inspired various MOPS communities I've invited her to speak at, but thanks to her engaging and convincing principles of self-care, I've kept up with many habits I've developed from her online programs. Now, she has created a book for moms that is simple in practice yet so deeply powerful. Her writing is a gift." —Sherri Crandall, VP of Global Ministries and Leadership Experience at MOPS International
Praise from Members of the Mama Be Present
"Brit strikes a powerful balance between hilarious and raw, story and research, and light-hearted and profound as she walks alongside moms guiding them in the most contradictory role in motherhood." —Christin Bourg
"Brit has helped me see that everyday seemingly insignificant things actually play a big role in creating joy. From ways to PLAY with my kids without embarrassment to how to plan for certain situations, this book has shifted my expectations and given me great tools for joyful parenting." —Kristal Schneider
"I'm astonished at how thought-provoking Mama Be Present was for me. All along, you think it's just about how to be a more present mom, but in reality, you’re also finding who YOU are again. I was in tears at the end. Brit’s prompts are some of the most insightful things I’ve ever read. 'Stop. Drop. Mom.' and 'Return to You' will stay with me forever." —Amy Norbert McKeon
“This book will have you crying and laughing from start to finish. While Brit constantly reminds us how precious the early years are, she also offers genius tips and hilarious perspectives on the everyday struggles we can all relate to. It's such an inspiring toolkit for all moms.” —Mirna Tomic
156 pages, Paperback
Published April 5, 2023
2 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 25, 2023
This book gives you daily, or 40 prompts to get through the toddler days! Those days are long but the years are short. the Author, Brit is trying to make sure she takes advantage of every second!
I think the concept of this book is great & can be helpful amongst moms with young children. There were many prompts I found myself writing down and thinking about!
However, I am not the type of mother for book. When I’m looking for parenting/ motherhood advice/ suggestions for my family, cursing and calling children “ticking time bombs” or “little rebels” are a bit of a turn off for me. I also believe Brit and I parent very differently! Which is totally fine, but that allowed for me to not agreeing with some of her suggested prompts. I also had a hard time with the writing style of this book, she used a lot of whole word caps and spelled a few words like “craaazier”- which really made it feel like I was reading a Facebook post, not a book.
Overall, through this book, you can tell that Brit absolutely adores her son, JeeWoo. She’s a great mom and has such a lovely heart for bringing other moms into the same atmosphere of being present.
I was given a copy of the book for a honest review.
I think the concept of this book is great & can be helpful amongst moms with young children. There were many prompts I found myself writing down and thinking about!
However, I am not the type of mother for book. When I’m looking for parenting/ motherhood advice/ suggestions for my family, cursing and calling children “ticking time bombs” or “little rebels” are a bit of a turn off for me. I also believe Brit and I parent very differently! Which is totally fine, but that allowed for me to not agreeing with some of her suggested prompts. I also had a hard time with the writing style of this book, she used a lot of whole word caps and spelled a few words like “craaazier”- which really made it feel like I was reading a Facebook post, not a book.
Overall, through this book, you can tell that Brit absolutely adores her son, JeeWoo. She’s a great mom and has such a lovely heart for bringing other moms into the same atmosphere of being present.
I was given a copy of the book for a honest review.
November 9, 2023
From the back cover: Mama Be Present provides 40 accessible ways to spark a moment of fun, connect with your child/ren, or seek some much-needed rest. It’s a practical tool for the practice of parenting, delivering solution-based prompts that can be used at any time and (almost) any place.
The good: In this book, Brit provides some great ideas on how to connect and engage with your child(ren)—ideas that I am glad to be walking away with after having read her book. With an upbeat and light-hearted tone, Mama Be Present is a quick read that can easily be read in one sitting, over several days, or as needed.
The not-so-good: When reading a parenting book, I’m looking to be encouraged and equipped by biblical truths and I believe much of the advice given towards moms in this book is quite worldly. Also, I was taken back by the presence of cursing several times throughout the book.
Overall: Mama Be Present is a book written by a mom whose heart is clearly for her child and for other moms to be present and engaged with their child(ren). And though I do not agree with everything that Brit shares in this book, I do agree with this statement: “The days are long, but the years are short… let’s make tiny, mighty memories.”
⭐⭐✨/2.5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The good: In this book, Brit provides some great ideas on how to connect and engage with your child(ren)—ideas that I am glad to be walking away with after having read her book. With an upbeat and light-hearted tone, Mama Be Present is a quick read that can easily be read in one sitting, over several days, or as needed.
The not-so-good: When reading a parenting book, I’m looking to be encouraged and equipped by biblical truths and I believe much of the advice given towards moms in this book is quite worldly. Also, I was taken back by the presence of cursing several times throughout the book.
Overall: Mama Be Present is a book written by a mom whose heart is clearly for her child and for other moms to be present and engaged with their child(ren). And though I do not agree with everything that Brit shares in this book, I do agree with this statement: “The days are long, but the years are short… let’s make tiny, mighty memories.”
⭐⭐✨/2.5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 24, 2023
In a world that places unfair expectations and false realities on women—and especially mothers—“Mama Be Present” is a breath of fresh air.
In a world where being a mom and mom guilt sadly coincide, the book seeks to strip moms of the unnecessary guilt that burdens many of them. The book provides moms with relevant, timely, easily applicable advice to navigate—and enjoy, in a realistic fashion—some of the toughest days, the toddler years. Motherhood is a gift, but it isn’t all rainbows and roses. Brit reminds moms of both, helping them feel seen and known for the reality they experience.
Brit’s writing is crisp, fun and something you want to pick up after a long day. It’s like a coffee talk with a best friend. If you’re a woman who supports women, this is for you.
In a world where being a mom and mom guilt sadly coincide, the book seeks to strip moms of the unnecessary guilt that burdens many of them. The book provides moms with relevant, timely, easily applicable advice to navigate—and enjoy, in a realistic fashion—some of the toughest days, the toddler years. Motherhood is a gift, but it isn’t all rainbows and roses. Brit reminds moms of both, helping them feel seen and known for the reality they experience.
Brit’s writing is crisp, fun and something you want to pick up after a long day. It’s like a coffee talk with a best friend. If you’re a woman who supports women, this is for you.
August 14, 2023
Brit writes in a very raw an authentic way, and brings a lighthearted and casual approach to sharing her story and unique perspective on motherhood. I really appreciated how strongly she championed the value of slowing down and finding JOY IN THE ORDINARY.
Unfortunately, as a Believer I cannot recommend this book to fellow Christian moms as a beneficial read. I found the crass language and name-calling of her kid a bit jarring. I also don’t think the victim-mentality of parenthood or the supposed importance of self (both of which are consistent in this book) are helpful. The suggested solutions to anger/burn out are self-centered and shallow, failing to provide lasting change.
I commend Brit for the work it takes to write, create, and publish a book! I really liked the unique approach to the Contents page in provided one numerically and based on theme.
Unfortunately, as a Believer I cannot recommend this book to fellow Christian moms as a beneficial read. I found the crass language and name-calling of her kid a bit jarring. I also don’t think the victim-mentality of parenthood or the supposed importance of self (both of which are consistent in this book) are helpful. The suggested solutions to anger/burn out are self-centered and shallow, failing to provide lasting change.
I commend Brit for the work it takes to write, create, and publish a book! I really liked the unique approach to the Contents page in provided one numerically and based on theme.
August 18, 2023
Brit's book feels like sitting down with a friend over coffee and talking about all the REAL parts of parenting in the toddler years, including both its challenges and its joys. It's refreshing, funny and heartfelt and her prompts have already helped me break through some of those moments when I've been in the thick of it and need a new perspective.
August 20, 2023
Such a a great gift for a mama who could use a pick-me-up, a pat on the back, a high-5, or a hug! We're all in this together and it's a great reminder to laugh and enjoy.
PS - to the reviewers who commented on the 'language' - I found it totally enjoyable, and relatable. You helped me find my people!
PS - to the reviewers who commented on the 'language' - I found it totally enjoyable, and relatable. You helped me find my people!
July 14, 2023
Mama Be Present is a book about simple ways you can connect with your toddler and to be present even in the simple everyday. There were things I really enjoyed about this book. There were some really clever, fun, and simple ideas of things to do and I appreciated that most of them are things anyone can do on any kind of budget!
The reason I am only giving this 2 stars though is there was a lot of self-love kind of language throughout. As a Christian, I was uncomfortable with this aspect of the book along with language throughout. The "F" word was used a few times for example. Because of this, I can not reccomend this book unfortunately.
The reason I am only giving this 2 stars though is there was a lot of self-love kind of language throughout. As a Christian, I was uncomfortable with this aspect of the book along with language throughout. The "F" word was used a few times for example. Because of this, I can not reccomend this book unfortunately.
May 25, 2023
This is a book I wish I had when my daughter was a toddler. I spent so much time (and money) trying to be this Pinterest-perfect mom—which failed miserably because it’s impossible to be that when you’re sleep deprived and scrubbing poop off walls before crying in a closet.
Mama Be Present really is a “take this moment by the horns and do your best, you coffee-stained wonder” kind of guide. It embraces the challenges we face while also offering simple ways to surprise and delight our kids. Let’s be honest - we all know they would much rather play with the box that super expensive learning toy came in than the toy itself, right? So why not embrace that moment and get creative. After all, it’s those MacGuyver moments that the magic of childhood are made of.
Note: I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review of the material.
Mama Be Present really is a “take this moment by the horns and do your best, you coffee-stained wonder” kind of guide. It embraces the challenges we face while also offering simple ways to surprise and delight our kids. Let’s be honest - we all know they would much rather play with the box that super expensive learning toy came in than the toy itself, right? So why not embrace that moment and get creative. After all, it’s those MacGuyver moments that the magic of childhood are made of.
Note: I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review of the material.
August 20, 2023
Do yourself a favor and get this book. You will laugh out loud, you may cry, you will feel all the feels, but most importantly - you will be reminded how fast this time goes and how important it is to be present and make the most of it - even on the toughest of days. Brit’s writing is warm and infectious. It makes light of the monotony of motherhood in a charming way while taking the pressure off the moments when we are struggling and proceed to feel guilty or shameful because of it. Mama Be Present normalizes motherhood and all the big emotions we carry (along with our toddlers) and gives great ideas on how to truly savor this time. It has been incredibly helpful to me especially venturing through my PPD, and this book has actually helped change my reactions to stressful or annoying moments and instead reminding me to make it a memory for me and my kiddo(s).
No where on the book cover did I read this was a Christian book for Christian mothers, so if you are interested in raising Christian children specifically I’m sure there are plenty of other options out there. (Only stating this due a few reviews that being this up.) But please know you will be missing out on the realness, humor, and charm from this wonderful read.
Thank you for making this world better, happier, and lighter Brit and Mama Be Present! Grateful for this read and look forward to coming back to it year after year.
No where on the book cover did I read this was a Christian book for Christian mothers, so if you are interested in raising Christian children specifically I’m sure there are plenty of other options out there. (Only stating this due a few reviews that being this up.) But please know you will be missing out on the realness, humor, and charm from this wonderful read.
Thank you for making this world better, happier, and lighter Brit and Mama Be Present! Grateful for this read and look forward to coming back to it year after year.
August 19, 2023
This book is incredible. Brit has a magical way of writing, sharing her voice, and pulling you in and engaging you in the moment and activities she presents. What I love about this book is it isn't a parenting book on how tos or what tos, it doesn't leave you feeling guilty or shameful, but rather puts you in the eyes of your child and finds fun, easy ways to connect with them through simple everyday moments and activities; all while you're in the thick of motherhood and possibly burnout. The other incredible part of this book is the space to reflect or journal how the experience went, or anything that's on your mind while you're reading. It was so fun to do some of the activities and I love that just seeing it on my nightstand or bookshelf reminds me to be present with my children and how I can find the simple joyous ways to do that. It's definitely a book I will be buying as gifts for my friends!
March 17, 2025
This was such a funny and inspiring book on motherhood! I read as a devotional and did a page a day (although as with anything in motherhood there were gaps here and there 🤣)
As an adoptive/foster mama myself, also resonated with some of Brits unique stories! If that’s you, this book will ring some bells and definitely connect with you on that level.
There were also so many days that I started the morning reading one of these inserts and it impacted how I showed up for my kids that day ❤️ if you’re looking for something that will inspire you in a gentle, hilarious, and meaningful way to be more present with the tiny humans you’re raising, this is 40 days wonderfully well spent!
THANKS BRIT!
As an adoptive/foster mama myself, also resonated with some of Brits unique stories! If that’s you, this book will ring some bells and definitely connect with you on that level.
There were also so many days that I started the morning reading one of these inserts and it impacted how I showed up for my kids that day ❤️ if you’re looking for something that will inspire you in a gentle, hilarious, and meaningful way to be more present with the tiny humans you’re raising, this is 40 days wonderfully well spent!
THANKS BRIT!
August 17, 2023
Books can be overwhelming. Anything can be overwhelming with little minis running around. This is so much more than a book. It’s small, palatable life-rafts in the ocean of motherhood. It’s incredible how when I tune in and become more present with these activities/outlooks/chapters, motherhood becomes simpler and more joyful. Brit’s writing is a also joy to read and this book is a just that - a joy to read.
August 17, 2023
This is a great book for moms who celebrate all aspects of motherhood. The amazing, the good, the bad & the terrible because motherhood has moments that fit into every single one of these categories. It’s a short, fun & meaningful read. I have found myself using it as a tool to reset our day on more than once occasion. If you appreciate honest motherhood & maybe even reading in a voice that sounds like your OWN internal monologue, this book is for you!
August 17, 2023
Brit’s style is honest, joyful, relatable, humble, and, at times, laugh-out-loud funny. The way this book is presented in small, manageable ideas allowed me to gobble it up all at once but also to revisit the prompts later when I wanted a reminder on something specific. She has a masterful way of balancing story and research that really resonated with me. I highly recommend this book and will pass it on to my friends!
August 17, 2023
In a fun whimsical way, Brit gives us reminders on seeing the brighter side of motherhood. I have this book next to my bed when I need a pick me up or a quick tip on parenting my 4yr old. “I love the smell of possibility in the morning” is one of my favorite prompts and the overall motivation that this book will give (sometimes) tired parents (ok, almost always tired) when handling our biggest job…trying to raise a good human being.
August 18, 2023
This book is such a great reminder of how precious the early years of our children’s life are. It offers some genius tips and at the same time hilarious perspectives on the everyday struggles of parenthood, we can all relate to. It a great tool for every toddler mom, and I cannot recommend it enough!
August 19, 2023
I adore this book and recommend for anyone in the throes of early parenthood! It is so honest, funny and easy to read a chapter at a time (say, if you're grabbing some alone time by hiding in the bathroom!) I love all the simple ideas for connecting with your toddler, but the best part is all the witty and relatable stories.
August 21, 2023
Love this book for parents struggling with all the contradictions of life-with-kids! The joy and the frustration. The excitement and the exhaustion. Brit hears, sees and connects with real moms and shares her meaningful and simple "prompts" to reset and reconnect with your child and yourself. BravOOOOOO Brit!!!!
August 17, 2023
I love this book. And would totally really recommend it. When I'm feeling overwhelmed I grab it and flip to a chapter. It's an easy read that makes me laugh out loud and it feels like the author is speaking directly to me!! I've found tons of great tips from it that will stay with me forever.
August 17, 2023
A breath of fresh air and totally real. Lots of great ideas!
August 17, 2023
Just finished Reading “Mama Be Present” and it was a fun, quick, loving book that encourages us to all slow down and enjoy the smallest aspect of being a “mama” 10/10 would recommend!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews